Consumerism: meaning, definitions and examples
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consumerism
[ kənˈsjuːmərɪz(ə)m ]
modern society
Consumerism is a social and economic order that encourages the acquisition of goods and services in ever-increasing amounts. It is often associated with materialism and the belief that buying more leads to increased happiness and fulfillment.
Synonyms
commercialism, consumer culture, materialism
Examples of usage
- Consumerism has led to a throwaway culture where products are quickly discarded and replaced with newer versions.
- The holiday season is often characterized by rampant consumerism, with people rushing to buy gifts and decorations.
Translations
Translations of the word "consumerism" in other languages:
🇵🇹 consumismo
🇮🇳 उपभोक्तावाद
🇩🇪 Konsumismus
🇮🇩 konsumerisme
🇺🇦 споживацтво
🇵🇱 konsumpcjonizm
🇯🇵 消費主義 (しょうひしゅぎ)
🇫🇷 consumérisme
🇪🇸 consumismo
🇹🇷 tüketimcilik
🇰🇷 소비주의 (소비주의)
🇸🇦 الاستهلاكية
🇨🇿 konzumerismus
🇸🇰 konzumerizmus
🇨🇳 消费主义 (xiāofèi zhǔyì)
🇸🇮 potrošništvo
🇮🇸 neysluhyggja
🇰🇿 тұтынушылық
🇬🇪 მომხმარებლობა (momkhmarebloba)
🇦🇿 istehlakçılıq
🇲🇽 consumismo
Etymology
The term 'consumerism' originated in the early 20th century, initially with a positive connotation as a movement to protect consumers from unfair business practices. However, it has evolved to represent a more negative aspect of modern society, characterized by excessive consumption and a focus on material possessions. The rise of consumerism is closely linked to the growth of capitalism and advertising, shaping the way people perceive their needs and desires.
See also: consumable, consume, consumed, consumer, consumers, consuming, consummation, consumption, consumptive.